Ok…so you are ready to list your house. You have made that commitment. But wait, your kitchen still reminds you of the Sievert’s kitchen from Growing Pains. And your guest bathroom still has your kids’ favorite Nemo wallpaper that you so proudly hung in 2003. Fixtures are dated, appliances are functioning, but lack appeal, and your counter-tops are stained and chipped. But, you want to sell your home and get the most for your money. So, the question remains, do I spend the money for upgrades? Where should I start? Should I choose to remodel the kitchen? The bathroom? Both? Or do I simply just throw in the towel and list it “as is.”
First bit of advice, don’t throw in the towel. Upgrades, can certainly be an initial cost, but the improvements will add substantial value to your home that would be worth it when selling.
Remember that improvements may not just be those improvements that are visual, often improvements such as better insulation or upgrading the HVAC will increase the value of your home and in turn increase your listing price. However, if you must choose on what to improve, the bathroom and kitchen are the most essential rooms in the house that buyers look for improvements.
It is proven that any time you complete a home improvement project, you are investing in your home and in the long run, earn more money. Buyers are more quickly to purchase a home that is move-in ready. Sellers will find that it is easier to sell a home where they can offer upgrades as unique selling points. Buyers are looking for listings where they see comments such as, “newly remodeled kitchen,” “granite countertops,” “updated appliances.”
An updated house, that is priced correctly, not only increases your selling price, but your home will spend less time on the market; exactly what every seller desires.